Islamabad, May 3, 2025: Nationwide protests have erupted following a controversial move by the Utility Stores Corporation (USC), which has reportedly terminated the services of more than 3,500 contract employees across Pakistan.
The crisis began when regional managers received formal authorization to dismiss staff from grades one to thirteen. The All Pakistan Workers Alliance Utility Stores has condemned the action, labeling it illegal and in violation of existing legal protections.
Arif Shah, Secretary General of the alliance, confirmed the mass dismissals and cited a Supreme Court injunction that, according to the union, safeguards the rights of these employees. “We are preparing to file a contempt of court petition on Monday,” Shah stated.
Outrage over the decision has led to protests in several cities. In Lahore, dismissed workers staged a demonstration at Scheme Mor, demanding reinstatement and government intervention.
In a dramatic plea, Nawab Shah Niaz Hussain Brohi, a regional manager, wrote a letter in his own blood to JUI-F leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman, calling for urgent action. Brohi alleged that the effort to shut down Utility Stores is part of a conspiracy by the sugar mafia and warned that eliminating the institution would harm low-income communities who rely on subsidized goods.
“These stores were established to serve the poor, not to be sacrificed for corporate interests,” Brohi wrote, urging Maulana Fazlur Rehman to defend the public welfare role of Utility Stores.
As the standoff continues, the government has yet to issue an official response. Meanwhile, tensions remain high among workers, union leaders, and USC management.
